A Dazzling Display of Northern Lights Wows Residents Across US
Residents across more than half a dozen states in the US were treated to a spectacular display of the Northern Lights overnight, with many reporting sightings of the dancing green and purple glow of the aurora borealis. According to reports from the National Weather Service offices in several states including Washington, Montana, Wyoming, Minnesota, Wisconsin, South Dakota, North Dakota, and New York, the Northern Lights were visible throughout the night.
The Space Weather Prediction Center, which forecasts aurora activity, reported “stronger than anticipated” influences, predicting that the Northern Lights would continue into Friday morning. In fact, the center suggested that the spectacle “may be seen tonight as far south as Alabama and Northern California”.
If you’re eager to see the Northern Lights, it’s important to manage your expectations as there are no guarantees when it comes to spotting them. However, a Space Weather Prediction Center forecast from Thursday night suggested that strong geomagnetic storming was expected to roll into the early morning and overnight hours of Thursday and Friday, indicating the best chance for spotting the aurora would be in northern states such as Alaska, Washington, Idaho, Montana, North Dakota, Minnesota, Wisconsin, Michigan, and New York.
The aurora borealis is typically only visible from a dark place, making it tougher to see in metropolitan areas. However, weather service offices in several states shared stunning photos of the skies ablaze with shimmering green and purple hues, with some forecasters expressing their disbelief at the breathtaking display.
The Northern Lights are caused by particles flowing from the sun that get caught up in Earth’s magnetic field. As these particles interact with molecules of atmospheric gases, the glowing red and green colors of the aurora are formed.
Overall, it’s clear that the Northern Lights put on a show-stopping performance for residents across several US states, providing a breathtaking reminder of the beauty and majesty of the natural world.
